This post is the second in a short series of entries about career coaching. When many people think about what a career couch might do, they think about help with preparing for interviews. That is one area where you may or may not need a lot of assistance. Some people are just more comfortable with communication than others. If it has been years since you conducted a job search, you may find it very helpful o discuss today's interviewing processes and typical or frequently asked questions.
But before you get to the interviewing stage, you will need a basic resume, cover letter, and other letters. There are individuals who will create a resume for you, for a fee. A career coach generally will be able to review your written documents and may recommend changes to enhance your presentation. Also, having another person review your documents is always a good thing, as you may have missed a typo or other error.
Additionally, you may need to consider these questions:
1. Do you already have a current, up-to-date resume?
2. Do you know how to create a cover letter that generates interest in you?
3. Do you know how to revise your resume to fit different situations/positions?
4. Do you know how to market yourself to organizations that have not advertised a position?
If not, it may be that you could benefit from some of the services offered by a career coach. This topic will be continued in the next entry.
Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed professional Counselor (LPC) in private practice providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions; including career change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, coping with an empty nest, and other life planning issues. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Please visit her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com for more information.
To contact Mary Ann, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourcareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.